A client–server architecture for remotely controlling a robot using a closed-loop system with a biological neuroprocessor

This paper introduces an open-source real-time system that remotely controls a robot using human neuroblastoma cultures and a client–server architecture. Multielectrode array set-ups have been designed for direct culturing of neural cells over silicon or glass substrates, providing the capability simultaneously to stimulate and record populations of neural cells. However, it is very difficult to attach these neural cells to the robot structure due to the special conditions of the biological material. The main objective of this research is to build a client–server system for remotely connecting a robot to a neural culture in a closed-loop experimentation. The robot sensors will feed the biological neuroprocessor, while the neural activity will be used for guiding the robot, controlling in this way the robotic behaviour.

Research highlights► Robotic guidance using neural cultures. ► Autonomous Robotic remote control. ► Biological Neuroprocessor design.